Levuka abuzz with chief’s installation
Mr Delaidriti shared insights into the community’s collaborative efforts, with 10 villages within the Levuka district rallying to contribute $5000 each towards the ceremony’s expenses.
Monday 20 May 2024 | 12:08
Taukei Nabukebuke, Turaga na Tui Levuka, Ratu Etonia Seru Rokotunaceva
The vanua of Levuka in Ovalau is busy with anticipation as preparations reach their climax for the long-awaited installation ceremony of the Taukei Nabukebuke, Turaga na Tui Levuka, Ratu Etonia Seru Rokotunaceva.
This significant event, set to take place at Levuka Vakaviti tomorrow, promises to draw more than a thousand attendees from across Fiji and overseas.
In an interview with vanua spokesperson Usaia Delaidriti, it was revealed that careful preparations have been underway for a year to ensure the ceremony’s success.
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Taukei Nabukebuke, Turaga na Tui Levuka, Ratu Etonia Seru Rokotunaceva
The title of Tui Levuka has remained vacant for 16 years since the passing of his father, Ratu Kolinio Rokotunaceva, in 2008. Now, the time has come to fill this esteemed position once again.
Mr Delaidriti shared insights into the community’s collaborative efforts, with 10 villages within the Levuka district rallying to contribute $5000 each towards the ceremony’s expenses.
“This collective effort underscores the deep respect and support for Ratu Seru,” he said.
The installation ceremony, scheduled for 10 am, will adhere strictly to traditional customs, with no church service planned for the day. Expectations are high, with organisers bracing for a turnout surpassing thousands of attendees.
Mr Delaidriti said, adding since Wednesday last week, guests have been graciously hosted by the vale levu family.
Mr Delaidriti outlined the ceremonial schedules, detailing Ratu Etonia’s involvement in traditional rituals following his installation.
From spending four nights in a Fijian bure with chiefs from the 10 villages, then to his bathing place called Naivitabua and later followed the Meketaki ni Yaqona Vakaturaga and solevu will be accorded to him on Saturday.
Levuka has inviting the general public for the auspicious event.
The vuvale Bete of the mataqali Burenitu from the yavusa Solevu in Bua who will take part in the installation of Ratu Etonia arrived in the weekend.
A delegation from Namosi, led by Tui Namosi Ratu Suliano Matanitobua, will arrive today.
The two vanua share historical ties.
Feedback: lusiana.tuimasala@fijisun.com.fj
